Higher Education (Universities etc.)
This page is a gateway to information about Universities, or Higher Education Institutes (HEIs), as they are sometimes known.
Why University?
A course of study at a university can be extremely tough and time demanding. It can also be expensive, so it is worth thinking carefully about whether this is what you want. Nevertheless, a programme of study at a good university will broaden the mind, expand horizons and give you a lot of confidence. A degree can change your life for the better and lead to new opportunities and new careers so the information in this section is designed to give you as much information as possible to help you make that decision.
What Qualification do you want?
The qualifications you can study for range from level 4 to level 8 on the Qualification and Credit Framework in England, Wales and Northern Ireland or in Scotland from level 7-12 of the Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework. All the qualifications will be awarded by the institution itself with standards safeguarded by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) which has jurisdiction UK-wide through national committees.
Foundation Degrees Higher education qualifications that combine academic study with work-based learning
Bachelors degrees - also known as 'ordinary' or 'first' degrees
Postgraduate qualifications - certificates, diplomas, masters degrees and doctorates
What University is best for you?
Here is an interactive map and an alphabetical list of all the Higher Education Institutions (i.e. universities) in the country (courtesy of Wolverhampton University).
Aimhigher is funded by the HEFCE and the DFES - their site provides information about all univerisities and colleges and also provides a very useful map and postcode locator.
Another useful resource is supplied by Hero and also provides an alphabetical list plus postcode locators and maps.
The Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) reports on all Higher Education Institutions and the information may be helpful in choosing a university or college
The Open University is a world-wide 'virtual' institution that supports university level education based on distance learning (rather than institution based). It is geared around the needs and interests of adult learners. BECTU members get a 10% discount!
What course do you want?
- Go to the 'Aimhigher' website to order a prospectus from any university in the country.
How to apply
You will need to apply to the Universities and Colleges Admission Service (UCAS) who have a special advice page for mature students on their website. You can also contact the admissions tutor for the course or university department you are interested in.